There are many reasons why a woman might stay in an abusive relationship, and it often comes down to the fact that she does not have the power to leave. These reasons often include lack of financial means, concern for her children, and lack of support.

There is another reason why she might stay – her pets. According to a 2012 report done by the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), 59% of abused women with pets were afraid to seek out help for themselves out of concern for their animals.

In many situations, women are the primary caregivers of the household pets, and especially in times of hardship, they form a special bond with them. One of the last things they want is to see their pet harmed or to be separated from them.

Sadly, there is a link between human and animal violence, and animal abuse itself often signals problems within a family. Abusers may target the pets of the family to create an intimidating environment, to demonstrate power, and even to prevent the human victims from leaving or to coerce them to return.

The SPCA also found that 36% of abused women with animals reported that their abuser had threatened or harmed their animals, and 85% of those threats were carried out. In addition, in cases where both children and animals were present, 85% of the children witnessed the threat or harm to the animals.

So what is being done about this situation, and how can women leave abusive relationships without fear for the wellbeing of their pets?

Throughout Canada, more and more domestic violence shelters are becoming pet friendly in order to allow for whole families to stay together. In Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer and Grande Prairie, a pet safekeeping program run by the Alberta SPCA and its partners has recently been launched, which provides temporary foster care for the pets of victims. Confidentiality is maintained and the program is offered free of charge.

As more awareness and understanding is built surrounding the issues of domestic abuse and its effects on entire families, there is hope that women will be able to leave abusive relationships without fear. This, in turn, may allow for more women to seek the help they need and to start anew, with their pets by their side.

For more information about the Pet Safekeeping program offered by the Alberta SPCA, click here.